H.J.R. 17 Enrolled

RESOLUTION REGARDING FUTURE
OPERATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF THIS
IS THE PLACE STATE PARK
1997 GENERAL SESSION
STATE OF UTAH
Sponsor: Jordan Tanner
A JOINT RESOLUTION OF THE LEGISLATURE EXPRESSING INTEREST IN THE
PRESENT AND FUTURE OPERATION AND DEVELOPMENT OF THIS IS THE
PLACE STATE PARK; AND URGING THE DIVISION OF PARKS AND
RECREATION TO EXPLORE CREATIVE PARTNERSHIPS WITH THE PRIVATE
SECTOR TO BETTER FACILITATE THE RAPID GROWTH AND USER INTEREST
GENERATED AT THIS IS THE PLACE STATE PARK SINCE ITS SELECTION AS
UTAH'S CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION PARK.
Be it resolved by the Legislature of the state of Utah:
WHEREAS Utah has a unique history and cultural heritage that is worthy of preservation
and perpetuation for present and future generations;
WHEREAS the Legislature is committed to the preservation and perpetuation of Utah's
historical, cultural heritage, and Native American history;
WHEREAS Utah's unique cultural heritage is of interest and value to both its residents and
visitors;
WHEREAS the Utah Statehood Centennial Commission proudly adopted This Is The Place
State Park as its "Living Legacy" project with a goal of creating a world class, living history
museum aimed at showcasing Utah and its heritage to the world;
WHEREAS on June 29, 1996, This Is The Place State Park, Old Deseret Village, was
reopened and this greatly expanded and improved park was rededicated as a place where visitors
from throughout the world can come and experience Utah's pioneer heritage firsthand;
WHEREAS the Legislature commends and supports efforts to enhance the valuable public
resource represented by This Is The Place State Park for the benefit of present and future
generations of Utah residents and visitors;

WHEREAS the Legislature recognizes the value of understanding one's cultural and
historical heritage, and encourages the Division of Parks and Recreation in its efforts to
professionally manage and maintain This Is The Place State Park;
WHEREAS the Legislature recognizes that funds necessary for the successful operation,
maintenance, and future development of This Is The Place State Park may necessitate partnerships
with both public and private interests; and
WHEREAS private foundations and trusts are looking to nonprofit organizations, instead of
governmental organizations, to grant charitable gifts for cultural and heritage projects:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Legislature of the state of Utah
recommend that the Division of Parks and Recreation set up a nonprofit organization to manage
growth, development, and promotion of This Is The Place State Park.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this nonprofit organization be overseen by an executive
director and board of trustees, with the explicit mission of promoting Utah's cultural and historical
heritage through the preservation, restoration, reconstruction, exhibition, and interpretation of Utah's
pioneer lifestyle.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that copies of this resolution be sent to the Division of Parks
and Recreation and the Statehood Centennial Commission.

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